Colours and shapes
The anthurium flower is made up of the spadix, the finger-shaped part of the plant that sticks upright in the air, and the brightly-coloured spathe that wraps around it like a shield. This spathe comes in shiny white, red, pink, purple, orange, green and multi-coloured varieties.
Symbolism
Given its appearance and its South American origin, the anthurium symbolises tropical beauty. It's an excellent choice of flower for a glamorous bouquet.
Origin
The anthurium is native to Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, Columbia and Venezuela. The French botanicist Eduard André discovered the flower in 1876 in Columbia and Ecuador. He also discovered orchids, bromeliads and various calla lilies, bringing them all back to Europe with him. The name anthurium derives from the Greek words ‘anthos’ and ‘oura’ which means ‘bloom’ and ‘tail’ respectively.
